About this Species

Black crappie are most abundant in reservoirs, oxbow lakes and backwater of large rivers. They thrive among woody cover or aquatic vegetation along the shoreline. Adults feed on fish but also eat insects. Spawning begins when the water temperature hits 64 degrees. Males build nests and guard the eggs and fry.

Fish Fact:

When less than a year old, crappie often migrate into open water of lakes, probably to escape bass and other predators along the shoreline.

As A Group:

White and black crappie are among the most popular panfish in Arkansas and second only to largemouth bass as sport fish. They are prized for their sweet flavor.